The length of your orthodontic treatment will vary depending on the severity of your issues and how well you adhere to instructions. It is crucial to wear your clear aligner trays for at least 22 hours a day to prevent your teeth from shifting back to their original position.

Minor cases of teeth gaps can be resolved in as little as 6 weeks, while other minor alignment issues may take up to 6 months. Most individuals typically wear their clear aligners for 12-18 months, but those with more serious problems may require treatment for 24 months or longer.

Clear aligners are effective for both adults and teenagers. Following treatment, wearing a retainer for 22 hours a day is usually necessary to maintain the results as the jawbone adjusts.

The duration of retainer wear will be determined based on your specific issues and will be discussed with your dentist. To learn more about clear aligners, schedule an appointment with Dr. Salman Khanani at our practice by contacting us today.

Clear aligners provide a more comfortable alternative to traditional braces by gently applying pressure to gradually move teeth into the correct position. It is common to feel some soreness, especially when initially wearing the aligners.

You will be given a new set of aligners every 2 weeks, with the tightest sensation occurring when you first wear a new pair. This pressure indicates that the treatment is working, as some pressure is necessary to shift the teeth.

As your teeth begin to move, the aligners will become looser and more comfortable. This is a signal that it is time for a new set of aligners. To help alleviate any discomfort, you can take over-the-counter pain medication or try sucking on ice cubes.

Make sure to only drink cold or room temperature water when wearing your aligners. Avoid hot liquids, smoking, and tobacco products. Clear aligners are easy to clean and maintain compared to traditional braces.

To prevent damaging your aligners, remove them before eating, drinking, or smoking. Rinse and store them in their case, brush and floss your teeth, and clean them daily with a soft-bristle toothbrush and cleaning solution.

Try to limit snacking and drinks to avoid having to remove your aligners for more than 2 hours a day, as this can affect their effectiveness.

Clear aligner attachments are small bumps that are the same color as your teeth. They are made of composite resin and are attached to your teeth to help your aligners stay in place and move your teeth in more complex ways. The size and shape of the attachments will vary depending on the type of movement needed for your teeth.

Sometimes, elastics may be used along with the attachments to help shift your jaw. However, not everyone will need clear aligner attachments. For minor issues, aligners alone may be enough to move your teeth.

If you have a misaligned bite or very crooked teeth, you will likely need attachments to help move your teeth in specific ways, such as rotating them or moving them into the gums. Once your treatment is finished, the attachments will be removed and your teeth will go back to normal.

The attachments are discreet and blend in with your teeth, so they are not usually noticeable unless you take your aligners out. It is recommended to only remove your aligners for up to 2 hours a day.

Remember to rinse your aligners before and after wearing them, and rinse your mouth after eating to prevent food particles and bacteria from getting on your aligners. Don't forget to brush and floss before putting your aligners back in each time.

Clean your aligners twice a day with a soft-bristle toothbrush and either denture cleaner or warm water. Avoid using toothpaste for cleaning.

Once a week, soak your aligners in cleaning crystals or denture solution for no more than 30 minutes. Do not soak them in hot water, as it can change their shape. Never soak your aligners in mouthwash.

Always store your aligners in the provided storage case when not in use to avoid damage or misplacement.

Clear aligners are a safe and reliable method of orthodontic treatment, even during pregnancy. They are FDA and ADA approved and are made of high-quality plastic that is free of BPAs.

Using clear aligners can improve your oral and overall health by correcting misaligned teeth. Crooked teeth are harder to clean and can increase the risk of tooth decay and gum disease.

This is especially important for pregnant women, who are more susceptible to gum disease. Gum disease can lead to premature labor, low birth weight, and other serious health issues for your child.

Interested in a pain-free, hygienic, and discreet alternative to braces? Contact us at Khanani Family Dental today to schedule a consultation for clear aligner therapy with Dr. Salman Khanani. Schedule Your Consultation Today!